The Voter Education & Youth Development Organization is concerned with “why every American doesn’t vote.” When you vote, it gives you the opportunity to elect a person that has the same values and concerns that you have for your family and community. Knowing that people of color has not always had the privilege to cast their ballot in an election is a right that should not be taken for granted. Brave men and women have died and suffered for us to have this right. The people that we elect on the city, county, state, and federal levels make laws by which we must abide. They can raise our taxes and decide what school your child attends. Also, they determine what type of clothes your child will wear to school. It is particularly important to know who your elected officials are at all levels of government. You should let them know if he/she does something with which you are not pleased. You will have the opportunity to vote for someone else in the next election. Winston County election was held on August 23, 2011, and only 43.22 percent of the register voters cast their vote. I ask all youth and young adults to listen to the issues and make your judgment base on the facts to determine what can you do make your life better in this county. Since you are not voting age, your parents vote will determine what your future will be like in the 21st Century. Encourage your parents or guardians to be wise when deciding to vote for a candidate. Remember that one vote can make a difference.
~Hubert Nicholson